But to a certain extent his distanced perspective, his hope and optimism, and also his willingness to listen to the grievances of both sides is what made him such a historically great peacemaker ("George Mitchell," Understanding Northern Ireland: BBC News, 2008). He refused to take 'no' for an answer, when people said that no compromise was possible. Patience is one of Mitchell's most notable qualities, even though at the time some of his critics said "he gave too much latitude to participants in the talks who were over-fond of their own opinions" ("George Mitchell," Understanding Northern Ireland: BBC News, 2008). But without such unfailing patience, the final peace settlement could never have occurred. The final talks that cumulated in a politically inclusive agreement, the establishment of a chief executive agreeable to both parties, and the agreement of all paramilitary groups to hand over their weapons took thirty-six hours of nonstop talks ("George Mitchell," Understanding Northern Ireland: BBC News, 2008).

Today, George...

populace without personal interests in Ireland. Mitchell continues to act as a lecturer and ambassador for peace, describing how he brokered what many people thought was an impossible treaty. He also continues to act as a negotiator in the Middle East and other 'hot spots' around the world. He is still filled with the same hope that people, no matter how deep hatred in their hearts may be, prefer peace to war. He also continues to be a moral force for change in the United States, as he strives to bring ethics back to the game of baseball. His firmness and patience is evidence of his leadership qualities, and his skilled diplomacy shows that listening to people often speaks accomplishes more than shouting at them.
Works Cited

George Mitchell." Understanding Northern Ireland: BBC News. 3 Mar 2008. http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/static/northern_ireland/understanding/profiles/george_mitchell.stm